Modal

Definition and Overview

Modal is a regenerated cellulose fiber made by dissolving cellulose derived from wood and re-forming it into fibers. It is classified as a type of rayon, but compared with general rayon, it is treated as a type with improved strength in wet conditions and dimensional stability.

The properties of the textile vary greatly depending on yarn thickness, weave or knit structure, finishing process, and the fibers blended with it. For that reason, it is important not to judge thickness, stretch, sheerness, or wash durability from the material name modal alone, but to check the textile specifications and test results.

Feel and Function

It is a material whose surface is smooth and that tends to have a soft, supple feel. In knits, it readily creates a drape that follows the body, and in woven fabrics it can create an expression that makes use of drapability. Luster depends on the yarn and finishing, but some have a subdued sheen.

As a cellulose-based fiber, it has moisture absorption properties and is also used for underwear and clothing worn close to the skin. On the other hand, performance such as water absorption, quick drying, strength, and pilling varies greatly depending on the blend ratio, knit density, and processing conditions, so confirmation according to the intended use is necessary.

• When blended with polyurethane, it is used for lightweight knits with stretch.
• When blended with polyester, the balance with ease of handling and strength may be adjusted.
• When blended with cotton, it may combine a natural-fiber-like look with a soft feel.

Main Applications

It is used for cut-and-sew items, T-shirts, innerwear, lingerie, nightwear, and similar products that require softness, moisture absorption, and drape. In lightweight to medium-weight materials, it is also suitable for blouses, shirts, dresses, and skirts.

It is distributed not only as a single material but also as blended textile with cotton, polyester, polyurethane, and others. Not limited to spring and summer use, it is also used for autumn and winter underwear and layered items depending on designs such as brushed or heavy knit constructions.

Selection and Handling Notes

At the planning stage, check the blend ratio, fabric weight, structure, stretch, and sheerness, as well as shrinkage after washing, skew, pilling, and color fastness. Especially for cut-and-sew items, changes in length and width after washing affect product dimensions, so perform a preliminary wash test under the same conditions as mass production.

For washing, follow the product care label and handle with reduced friction and twisting. Because the textile may stretch while wet, avoid strong wringing and hanging to dry while heavy; shaping it before drying helps suppress deformation.

When sewing, take care to prevent stretching during sewing, waviness, and seam failure in thin or soft knits. Match the needle, thread, and feed settings to the textile, use differential feed or anti-stretch materials as needed, and conduct sewing tests before mass production.

Differences from Similar Terms

Rayon is a general term for regenerated cellulose fibers, and modal is one type of rayon. Modal is distinguished from general rayon as a fiber designed with wet strength and dimensional stability in mind, but actual performance should be checked for each textile design.

Lyocell is also a regenerated cellulose fiber made from wood pulp, but the manufacturing process differs. Cupro is also a type of regenerated cellulose fiber and is mainly used for linings and applications that make use of drape. Even though these materials have similar raw materials, their feel, tendency to fibrillate, applications, and handling differ.

Frequently Asked Questions